Abstract: A method (100) for mechanically tuning a VCO that has a resonant stripline having vias in predetermined locations connected through a circuit board to ground. This includes a step (104) of measuring the operating frequency of the VCO. A following step (106) includes calculating an amount of frequency shift needed to achieve a desired frequency. A following step (108) matches the amount of frequency shift needed to values in a look-up table of frequency shifts versus via locations to determine which vias locations will provide the proper amount of frequency shift. A last step (110) includes mechanically disconnecting from ground the via locations indicated in the third step such that the desired frequency is achieved. This method (100) of tuning allows VCO frequency adjustment after final assembly avoiding problems of frequency shifts that can occur due to the placement of a metal lid on the circuit board after assembly.

Abstract: The present invention resides in a white thermal control surface resistant to darkening due to exposure to X-rays and ultraviolet radiation. The surface comprises a substrate and a ceramic zirconium orthosilicate coating on said substrate. The zirconium orthosilicate coating is obtained by plasma-spray applying particles of zirconium orthosilicate onto the substrate. The particles of zirconium orthosilicate are doped with an oxide of a +3 valent metal. The metal ions of said +3 valent metal oxide are dispersed substantially uniformly throughout said particles.

Abstract: The present invention resides in a white thermal control surface resistant to darkening due to exposure to X-rays and ultraviolet radiation. The surface comprises a substrate and a ceramic zirconium orthosilicate coating on said substrate. The zirconium orthosilicate coating is obtained by plasma-spray applying particles of zirconium orthosilicate onto the substrate. The particles of zirconium orthosilicate are doped with an oxide of a +3 valent metal. The metal ions of said +3 valent metal oxide are dispersed substantially uniformly throughout said particles.

Abstract: An infrared scene projector has a cathode ray tube with a display screen coated with a luminescent phosphor material that produces radiation in the infrared spectrum when excited by the electron beam. The desired screen images are generated electronically, the screen is scanned by the cathode ray beam, and the intensity of the beam is modulated by the signal from the image generator.

Abstract: A method of determining battery life is shown wherein a dielectric constant sensor measures the dielectric constant value of the electrolyte of the battery. The measured dielectric constant value is compared to empirical values to provide battery status. In particular, a fluid electrolyte initially composed of thionyl chloride changes during discharge or aging to an electrolyte having sulfur monochloride therein. Based upon the changes in dielectric constant between the initial fully charged state to the fully discharged state, the battery status is obtained.

Abstract: A method of storing energy at ambient temperature and recovering same at an elevated temperature which comprises decomposition of a chemical compound at high temperature with a decomposition product being used to form another compound at low temperature. Upon regeneration of the decomposition product from the other compound there is a release of the originally absorbed high temperature thermal energy.

Abstract: A method of storing energy at ambient temperature and recovering same at an elevated temperature which comprises decomposition of a chemical compound at high temperature with a second compound being used to form another product at low temperature. Upon regeneration of the decomposition product from the first compound there is a release of the originally absorbed high temperature thermal energy.